The Pros and Cons of Moving in with Friends

June 3, 2024
The Pros and Cons of Moving in with Friends

Moving in with friends sounds like a dream come true. You can save money on bills and rent, share a place, and celebrate “Independence Day” every single day. However, not all day is a party. In reality, not all day is crazy stuff and giggles. You’ll have a goal and a lifestyle to achieve. Moving in with friends, obviously, has various advantages.

It will put your relationship to the test when moving in with friends. It can make your friendship even stronger when properly organized.

Is living with friends a good plan?

Before you sign on the dotted line to live together, you need to be aware and what to expect from living with your BFFs. Here, we are going to discuss the cons and pros of moving in with friends.

moving in with friends
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels

The pros of moving in with friends

They got our back.


Living with your closest friends implies that you can depend on them at whatever point you may require their assistance. The idea of realizing that, regardless of what occurs, you have someone close by to help you and assist you Obviously, your pals must realize that they can depend on you as well.

Complete trust


Contrasted with moving in with complete outsiders, moving in with friends or best friends is a good idea the fact that those are the people you know well and you trust. Subsequently, you won’t generally be wary when sharing a house with your closest companions since they won’t have any desire to mislead you or get enticed to take something from you.

Common trust is basic when living under one rooftop with friends, The idea you can truly confide in your flatmates should cause you to feel sheltered and agreeable in that new mutual home.

Common or Shared expenses


One of the most engaging motivations you want to move in with friends and live with them under one rooftop is the way that you’ll have the option to share the lease, home service charges, and basic food item bills. As a result, you should be able to save hundreds of dollars.

Pro Tip: Ways to Save Money When Moving 2020

Shared obligations


Living with your closest companion implies that with sharing the everyday expenses you’ll be sharing the household tasks also. So as to keep up the harmony of living together, every single one of you should do your share.

Make a housekeeping plan of what everyone should do on some random day of the week. Make sure to share the obligations decently to maintain a strategic distance from potential hard feelings.

Also, Read: Basic Tips on How to Downsize into a Smaller House

The cons of moving in with friends

Despite all the laughs, crazy stuff, and giggles, there is always a side to the story. Here are the disadvantages of moving in with friends.

Privacy


Living in with friends can be too much and there is a lack of privacy. Sometimes you need something to keep yourself up. You wish to be alone. You’re not always in a good mood for a party, but you may want some quiet time. How about having a boyfriend/girlfriend that needs a visit? That’s tough.

Another side of your friends


Living with your friends can be awkward, or it’s too tough for you to handle. You might start to see the other side of them. Seeing your friends for who they are, especially those that you never thought existed. It turns out that some of their living habits can be annoying.

Whether you’re moving in with friends to ensure fun at home or just to save money, it can be beneficial and amazing, as long as you know your responsibilities and personal space.

Ready to move with your friends? Find A Mover Today!

Related Articles:

How to Successfully Relocate Your Business or Office

June 3, 2024
How to Successfully Relocate Your Business or Office

Relocating your business to another place can be stressful. Losing important data and files in the moving process can be the worst experience. From packing boxes to truck transitioning in your new location is a hard task. Hiring qualified and professional Commercial Moving Company is important to do the moving process. They have all the resources and experience to help you move your business and guarantee your seamless move.

Related: Top 5 Best Interstate Moving Companies of 2020

Commercial Moving Company

Hiring a professional Commercial Moving Company will save you money, time, and frustrations. Choosing the best corporate moving company will ensure to protect your most valuable assets. Here are the steps to consider when moving your business location.

5 Steps for Commercial Moving Day

1. Always Get a Quote
Call and get a quote as many as you can. Calling each Commercial Moving Company will let you know how capable they are. Interview each representative regarding their knowledge and commercial experience. Doing this should have a clear expectation of how professional mover and equipment operations. Do not close a contract without doing this step.

2. Reviews and Testimonials
Always pay attention to moving reviews. Read reviews online to know what others saying about the company. You can generally trust a moving company with a high volume of good reviews and testimonials.

3. Visit The Company
If you have time and you are decided on a corporate mover, take time to visit the moving company facilities. Investigate to make sure all details via phone about your move can be covered.

4. Credentials and Certificate
Ask them to provide proof of credentials, certification, or training when in your doubt. A professional moving crew should any credential before you sign a contract.

5. Financial Stability
Always look into their pertinent financial information when looking for corporate movers. Looking for a company financial stability is very important. If a company is having a hard time handling their assets, what more can you expect on your move?

6. Insurance
Moving your business to another place is entrusting your valuable assets to professional movers. When putting your belongings to someone else, always get a proof of insurance. This will ensure your livelihood covered in case of an emergency or accident.

RELATED POST

Know Your Rights: What to Do When Movers are Late?

June 3, 2024
Know Your Rights: What to Do When Movers are Late?

Moving according to plan is truly nice and that is reality particularly if you have professional movers to deal with the move for you. Unfortunately, a few things may avoid your control regardless of how arranged and composed you are during the whole cycle. The issue emerges when everything is set yet your moving crew is late. You’re already in a tight timetable and hanging tight for them isn’t fun in any way.

Read on this article as we’ll give basic hints on what to do when your movers don’t show up on schedule.

Remain quiet and stay calm

Worrying too much doesn’t take care of the issue. Subsequently, it’s ideal in the event that you refrain yourself from panicking, Rather than burning through your time contemplating the possible worse scenarios, you would do well to remain quiet and utilize the time all the more proficiently. All things considered, you can’t do anything besides hold up until you learn the reasons why they’re late.

Contact the workplace of the moving company

Working with a moving company implies you should know their telephone number and the name of the delegate to converse with when an issue emerges. While there can be a ton of reasons why they didn’t show up on schedule, the best thing is to contact their office and ask them when the moving team will show up. You should also get all the data from them politely however firmly so you’ll realize what to do straightaway.

Use the waiting time efficiently

If there’s one thing you can do if the moving crew will show up later than expected, that is to hang tight for just a couple of hours and make everything work. There are, indeed, a few different ways where you can benefit from your time while sitting tight for the relocation.

You can even use the waiting time effectively by taking care of all your unloaded things and ensure everything is prepared for the move. From the marking of moving boxes to the arrangement of essentials, utilize that accessible time admirably.

Notwithstanding, If somebody tells you that the mover can’t go in close to the booked day, at that point it’s the ideal opportunity for you to adjust your next timetable.

last-minute moving company

Call the moving company for the re-arrangements

The second you’ve learned that your mover won’t have the option to assist you, at that point try to talk with them again to make revisions of the timetable.

Yet, in the event that you neglect to contact them out through their telephone numbers, visit their website and search for an alternative contact number. Keep in mind, you should continue trying until somebody in the organization will get the telephone and accommodate your concerns.

If your mover doesn’t show up following a couple of days, it’s a reasonable sign that you should search for a last-minute expert to do your home relocations.

What’s more, since you’ve likely paid a deposit or downpayment, don’t stop for a second to peruse and check your agreement well as you might be entitled to cashback.

Hire last-minute moving company

Even if everything appears to be so disappointing with your original moving organization, there’s as yet nothing to worry about on the grounds that last-minute moving company will consistently be there to assist you with settling the difficulty you’re involved with.

This is the best and last answer to consider when you’re confronting this sort of unfortunate circumstance. In spite of the short notification, this last-minute moving company will at present have the option to deal with your local moving as smoothly as could reasonably be expected.

Hence, find the correct replacement company that will most likely ward the worry off and will assist you with getting got comfortable your new home.

Conclusion

Much of the time, traffic jams and other issues can cause your mover to show up after the expected time. With these sorts of reasons, you can be certain that they’ll come over no matter what. Notwithstanding, in case you’re expecting for the moving crew for a more extended timeframe, it’s sad to say but you may have been a victim of a fraudulent moving company.

To ensure it’ll not occur, you need to check the mover’s accreditations before you sign any agreement with them. Make certain to request proposals or even get a few referrals to abstain from being a prey of moving fraud. Be prepared because everything is possible.

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Things to Check Before Booking a Moving Company

June 3, 2024
Things to Check Before Booking a Moving Company

Do your own basic, quick check of a mover’s credibility before paying a deposit. With our guide to checking the certifications of any operator and avoid serious difficulties with your move. Check movers and their licenses if you are availing their services.

Movers are intended to make moving less stressful, but they aren’t all made equal. Whether or not they claim to be a professional company will have a significant impact on your experience.

Make sure and check movers satisfy minimal standards such as insurance, safety, financial accountability, and regulatory compliance before booking them.

This quick assessment should only take you 10 minutes and will help you make an informed decision.

Check Their Registration

The US Department of Transportation (USDOT) requires all movers to be registered. Generally, movers will post their USDOT number on their website or supply it upon request. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issues these operating licenses in accordance with its regulations and legislation (FMCSA). You may look up their USDOT number using the FMCSA’s online search tool. The search will return information on the company’s registration status, fleet size, and compliance status. Confirm that they are “authorized for HHG” (household Goods) under the Safety Rating Data, indicating that their license is valid for residential movements.

In addition to a USDOT number, several states demand a state license. In New York State, check that your mover has the required permits, such as Authority to Transport Household Goods, from the New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner (NYSDOT).

On top of their USDOT registration, your mover will require an Interstate Operating Authority number. It is often known as a Motor Carrier Number (MC) if they are transporting cargo across state borders. On the FMCSA website, you can look up a mover’s qualifications by entering their MC number.

Ask for insurance.

Your mover should have numerous types of insurance to safeguard their customers, their belongings, their movers, the facilities they work in, and their ability to issue Certificates of Insurance (COI), which are required in some cities.

There are two ways for protecting your items that are needed by Federal Law (FMSCA). The two options are: Full Value Protection (100 percent replacement of lost or damaged things) or Released Value Protection (the most cost-effective option, but the mover expects no more than 60 cents per pound for each object). Customers who chose Released Value Protection should still be able to obtain supplementary insurance from a third party for their purchases. Before signing, make sure you understand the various levels of coverage available. Double-check the weight of your products on your binding estimate, also known as your Bill of Lading.

In order to function and conduct business, your movers must have their own insurance. General Liability Insurance, Cargo Insurance, Workers Compensation Coverage, Commercial Auto Insurance, and Professional Liability Insurance are some of the standard plans that movers are obliged to hold. Umbrella and Excess Liability policies are optional coverages that go above and beyond standard auto and home insurance. Before allowing them inside, check your movers. Buildings in New York City will need them to have $5 million in Umbrella Insurance.

Check Before Booking a Moving Company

Check Their Industry Excellence

Licensed movers are always members of the industry’s leading trade associations, such as the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA). AMSA conducts extensive background checks on movers and requires them to stay up to speed on the newest legislation and moving technologies. They also require them to participate in education and safety activities. It promotes nationally recognized, industry-wide standards for professional movers through its ProMover category. Inquire if your potential mover is a member of AMSA or another industry organization.

If you’re relocating internationally, make sure the mover is a member of a governing body like the FIDI Global Alliance. Depending on the sort of transportation, you should inquire whether they have a Federal Maritime Commission number or a Freight forwarder permit.

Look up For Online Transparency

On their website, professional companies will display their compliance qualifications. Reliable movers have strong safety and transparency policy, and you can find information about their compliance on their websites.

Customers’ consumer footprints on websites like Yelp, Google, Thumbtack, and Trustpilot are required by industry requirements for movers. These websites should show that a mover engages with its client community on a frequent and relevant basis, offering moving guidance and support.

If the company you’re planning to book with has a poorly detailed website, doesn’t manage consumer platforms, you should be concerned about the scale of their operations. You should also check if they have a significant social media presence. While their quote may be less expensive than the rest, you may wind up with a costly headache later. This is due to issues such as liability for damage and lost or stolen property.

Check Before Booking a Moving Company

Why Climate Controlled Storage is a Must-Have for You?

June 3, 2024
Why Climate Controlled Storage is a Must-Have for You?

In today’s ever-changing world, where climate fluctuations are becoming increasingly prevalent, ensuring the safety and preservation of your belongings is paramount. Whether you’re storing cherished heirlooms, sensitive electronics, or valuable furniture, the environment in which you store these items plays a significant role in their longevity. This is where climate-controlled storage enters the picture, offering a solution that goes beyond conventional storage options. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why climate-controlled storage should be a top priority for anyone looking to safeguard their possessions.

The Importance of Proper Storage

Before we dive into the benefits of climate-controlled storage, let’s first understand the critical role that storage conditions play in preserving your belongings. Whether you’re dealing with temperature-sensitive items or simply want to ensure your possessions remain in top condition, the environment matters.

Conventional storage units, while suitable for some items, may not provide the ideal conditions for many belongings. Extreme temperatures, humidity, and fluctuations in both can take a toll on your items over time. This is where climate-controlled storage comes to the rescue.

Understanding Climate-Controlled Storage

Climate-controlled storage refers to storage units equipped with systems that regulate temperature and humidity levels within a specific range. These units maintain a consistent environment, shielding your belongings from the harsh effects of climate variations.

Now, let’s explore why opting for climate-controlled storage at Wow Mover is a wise choice:

Protection Against Extreme Temperatures

One of the most significant advantages of climate-controlled storage is its ability to shield your items from extreme temperatures. Whether it’s sweltering summer heat or freezing winter cold, your possessions remain within a safe and comfortable range. This is particularly crucial for items that can warp, crack, or degrade when exposed to temperature extremes.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a move and need guidance on the use of moving pods, check out our Facts About Moving Pods page for useful tips and information.

Humidity Control

Excess humidity can wreak havoc on various items, from wooden furniture to electronics. In a climate-controlled storage unit, humidity levels are carefully regulated, preventing the growth of mold, mildew, and the deterioration of your belongings. This means your items stay dry and secure, regardless of external weather conditions.

Preserve the Integrity of Furniture

When it comes to storing furniture, climate-controlled storage is a game-changer. Wood, leather, and upholstery are all susceptible to damage from temperature fluctuations and humidity. With climate control, your furniture retains its original beauty and quality, ready for use whenever you need it.

Pro Tip: If you’re in the market for a reliable moving company, check out our recommendations for the Best Self Storage Companies on Wow Mover.

Protecting Sensitive Electronics

Electronics are delicate and easily affected by temperature swings. Extreme heat can cause components to overheat, while cold temperatures can lead to condensation and internal damage. Climate-controlled storage ensures your electronics are sheltered from these risks, extending their lifespan and functionality.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Storing belongings in a self-storage unit can be a convenient solution, but it’s essential to be aware of the legal and ethical aspects. Living inside a storage unit is illegal in many jurisdictions, and for good reason. These units lack the necessary facilities and conditions for human habitation, posing serious risks to health and safety.

Pro Tip: Discover the factors to consider when selecting the right storage unit for your furniture on our informative page, How to Choose the Right Storage Unit for Your Furniture.

Security and Peace of Mind

In addition to climate control, security is a vital aspect of preserving your belongings. Wow Mover ensures that your items are not only kept in an optimal environment but also protected against theft and damage. Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art security measures, giving you peace of mind while your items are in storage.

Two Men and a Truck Moving Review

Considering a move? Before you decide, check out our comprehensive review of the Two Men and a Truck moving service. It’s essential to make informed choices when it comes to relocating your cherished possessions.

Conclusion

In the ever-changing climate of today’s world, investing in climate-controlled storage is a must for anyone looking to preserve their belongings. From shielding against extreme temperatures to maintaining optimal humidity levels, climate-controlled storage provides the ideal environment for your items. Wow Mover, with its commitment to security and the longevity of your possessions, is your trusted partner in this endeavor.

Reasons Why Hire Professional During Business Relocation

June 3, 2024
Reasons Why Hire Professional During Business Relocation

Whether you are moving on your own or having the assistance of professional movers for business relocation, there are always some unexpected things that can happen. Of course, you don’t want to add more problems to the stressful situation of moving to a new home.

Moving your business into a different location is not an easy task. Moving to other places, cities or countries is like getting used to climate or fitting in a new club. Moving for most families picking each piece of your life and start over again from scratch.

If you are planning for business relocation soon, it is tempting to let your employee handle the packing or even the moving process just to cut the moving cost. But hiring a Business Relocation Services is a better choice; they are called professional movers for a reason. Here are some possible moving risks and how you can avoid the troubles they are about to bring you.

Also, Read: Why DIY Moving is a Waste of Time and a Bad Idea

business relocation

Why Hire a Professional Mover for Business Relocation?

Reduce Employee Strain
Unpacking and packing need an additional set of tasks besides the regular scope of employees’ jobs. It is unnecessarily stressful, especially if you expect to remain open while packing items. A professional mover can keep your employees focused on their jobs during the packing process.

Protect Your Office Furniture
This is one of the most common, if not the most common, problems with moving. Try to rearrange and prepare your large furniture so that when move day arrives, you can easily bring them out and load them in the vehicle.  But sometimes, people forget that some furniture weighs more than two or more adults. Always remember to remove all the contents of cabinets or chests. If the furniture can be disassembled, remove as many parts as you can to lessen the weight. Glass parts or windows should also be wrapped with tape just in case they come in contact with something sharp. Lastly, if the cargo is too large or too heavy to carry, just wait for the movers to come and let them do their job to avoid problems.

Losing Some Stuff While in Transit
Sometimes it can’t be helped that some of our belongings disappear while on our way to our new home. Poorly packaged boxes and ropes break are some reasons why. Always make sure that you pack the most important things together and put them in the safest place in the vehicle. For boxes that are outside the vehicle, tie them securely and use a strong rope. Take breaks in your trip and check if the bind is still there.

Breaking Fragile Objects
This is the real hassle during business relocation: making sure that the glassware is in a secured box. You don’t want to be opening those boxes with your plates or glasses in a thousand pieces, do you? Packing your fragile ones in a box and filling it with Styrofoam pellets will ensure that they can survive the trip. These pellets will absorb any impact in the box and make sure that the contents will not collide and break each other. If you can not find Styrofoam pellets, you can also make use of your old newspapers. Wrap them up and you can also use them to fill the spaces around the box and between the objects inside.

Encountering Wildlife
Once you are already going to move, it is obligatory to check if there are things that you might still want to bring in that big pile of stuff that you haven’t touched for almost a year. Chances are, there are already animals and insects that might be living in it. What you want to do is not to get as close to it at first. You can open the doors or windows if it is inside a room to enable air and sunlight to get through, this can warn your friends that you are about to check on the area. Try to poke it with long objects first before touching anything to fend off any critters in it.

Higher Costs
One of the primary reasons you may not consider hiring professional movers is that you believe the service is too expensive. You may think that moving yourself is significantly cheaper, which is why you think this option is the best one for you.

If you want to avoid these moving risks, hiring a Business Relocation Service is your best solution. Don’t put your office items and yourself at risk while moving. Professional movers will ensure that your next move is smooth and that your belongings will arrive safely.

Ready for business relocation without risking yourself and your belongings? Give us a call at (888)534-2250. WowMover is here to help you!

Find A mover

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Moving During Coronavirus? How to Stay Healthy

June 3, 2024
Moving During Coronavirus? How to Stay Healthy

Thinking of moving during coronavirus? Of course, staying safe while moving house comes down to staying healthy through the entire house move. Now, let’s focus on the equally important question of how to stay physically healthy during a global pandemic.

Must Read: How to Prepare your Move during Coronavirus Pandemic?

Moving During Coronavirus Guides

Wear a Face Cover: At the point when you get down to your storage areas (car garage, storage room, basements) and begin packing the things put away there, consider wearing a face mask to shield you from taking in any destructive germs and allergens. Be careful that layers of residue can trigger different kinds of awful allergies.

wear facemask

Wear Quality Work Gloves: Your grip while moving things is completely key to keep mishaps under control. Ensure you wear excellent work gloves to not just get that great hold while hefting substantial objects around, yet additionally to shield your fingers and hands from injury. Pick tough and stretchable work gloves made of sweat-resistant textured fabric and very much cushioned around crucial regions of the hand.

Moving During Coronavirus wear gloves

Wear Comfortable Shoes: What you wear on your feet upon the arrival of the move matters more than you might suspect. Prevent exorbitant mishaps by picking your most comfortable pair of shoes – one that offers adequate ankle protection and has anti-slip soles. In most cases, sports shoes will work best.

Clear All Paths: Your safety can be easily compromised by various types of obstacles scattered along the paths leading from the rooms all the way to the parked moving truck. And when you’re carrying heavy things around, the last thing you’d want is to have the pathways littered with all sorts of debris. So, see to it that nothing gets in your way.

Use Legitimate Lifting Strategies.: Ensure your health by utilizing the best possible lifting procedures while moving substantial household things, for example, furniture, appliances and even boxes. One wrong move or misinterpreted exertion could cost you truly upon the arrival of the move. In this way, you should do your absolute best to prevent individual wounds when moving .

Utilize the Right Moving Gear: It’s definitely not a joke to move too huge and substantial things from your home to the moving vehicle, and afterward to stack those heavy items into the truck. To do this securely, you’ll need the correct kind of moving gear – furniture dolly, furniture sliders, moving lashes, etc. On the off chance that you don’t have the necessary moving gear pieces or you have no clue how to use them safely, at that point don’t risk your health and do what you ought to have done in the absolute starting point

Need a Mover during the Coronavirus pandemic?
We will direct you to the best interstate moving and storage companies to make your move safer and easier.

Cheap Ways to Move Cross Country

June 3, 2024
Cheap Ways to Move Cross Country

Most people move to schools, closer to family and job. Whatever the reason for your move, you’ll want to find the cheap ways to move. No matter how you think of it, moving is expensive and stressful. It is very important to find or think of any cheap ways to move. Every single penny matters. Here are some tips to save money when moving to other places.

Before we begin, let’s talk about the average cost of moving cross country. Generally, the cost of the cross country depends on your loads, how soon do you need, and the size of your household. The average cost moving cross country range about $2,356 and $6,176. To save you money moving cross country, here are the cheap ways when moving.

Also, Read: Best Interstate Moving Companies of 2022

5 cheap ways to move across the country

1. Disposing Items The Right Way

When you’ve filtered out your stores of stuff to make sense of what merits moving and what you can live without, it’s a great opportunity to really dispose of it. (That is the hardest part!) Since time is cash, having a carport deal isn’t forever your most logical option. You can sell bigger things at a relegation shop or through your nearby classifieds area and give the rest. (Simply ensure you get the receipt for your expenses). On the off chance that you do go ahead with a yard deal, try not to put sticker prices on anything. For whatever length of time that you are capable and ready to arrange, you will have the least demanding carport offer of your life.

2. Cheap ways to pack for a move

One of the cheap ways to move across the country is recycling and reusing old material. If its all the same to you have the opportunity and taking every necessary step, packing things yourself is a successful method to set aside some cash. What’s more, in case you’re brilliant about it, the main things you should purchase for the event are some packing tape and a Sharpie.

Also. Read Car Shipping Tips: 5 Ways To Save Money!

cheap ways to move
cheap ways to move

3. Take Your Time, Don’t Settle on Rushed Choices

Clearly, the more stuff you claim, the more you will need to dish out for the move. Most trucking company charge as per weight, so the more you can dispose of, the lower your expense.

That being stated, you should be savvy about what you hurl and what you take. Indeed, disposing of your couch may spare you a wad of cash moving, however, it will cost you much more to supplant it once you find a good pace home. Before you haul out anything to the control, consider whether you have a spot for it in your new home – or if it merits the expense of substitution.

4. Changing The Move Date May Set Aside You Cash

You don’t generally have a state in when you’re going to move – if your life partner is in the military and evolving areas, for instance. Be that as it may, in the event that you do have the alternative, attempt to move during the slow time of year, which is as a rule between the long stretches of October and May. You may likewise have the option to spare some mixture by basically changing the date of your transition to the center of the month since most the individuals are moving toward the end or start of it.

While there are a lot of approaches to cut costs during your turn, it is essential that you pick trucking services dependent on their administrations and abilities and not their cost.

Also, Read: Why Choose Two Men And A Truck Moving?

5. Tips for an Easier, Faster and Less Stressful Move

We all agree that moving is one of the most stressful experiences. Moving involves mental, physical, and psychological discomfort. From planning to settling to your new location. If you hire professional movers from the top interstate moving companies or local movers all lifting and packing will be done for you.

1. Keeping a list before you get started with all your tasks listed will make it easier for you. Prioritize all items and make sure to highlight things that are completed.

2. Color code and Label your Boxes assigning a color to boxes will help you save time to identify the things inside and will also help you not to forget.

3.  You may want to use Vacuum Sealed bags to save space. These are used to pack clothes and most of your fluffy items away and make use of smaller space.

4. Take a quick break! Taking a break is important. Breathe in and get your favorite drink. time for yourself is still vital to take a few minutes or even half an hour and do anything you think can help you relax.

There you have it! – Cheap ways to move cross country!

These are a few things I’ve learned over the course of all of my move that I know that will make things a bit easier and lessen your stress these are also practical information that you can share with your friends.

Even if you choose a small moving company, all listed above will be very helpful to you!

You can generally get in touch with us for moving statements and any inquiries you may have.

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How Much Should You Tip Your Movers? A Complete Guide

June 3, 2024
How Much Should You Tip Your Movers? A Complete Guide

Tipping is a customary practice in the service industry, including for movers. Deciding how much to tip movers can be tricky. The tip amount depends on several factors and can vary widely. 

This article provides guidelines on average tip amounts, key considerations when deciding tip percentages, whether to tip per person or per team, appropriate non-cash tips, when to tip, and general tip etiquette. The goal is to equip readers with the knowledge needed to tip movers appropriately. Tips are a sign of appreciation for good service, but should also reflect other factors like the difficulty of the job and movers’ base wages.

Factors That Impact Tip Amount

The amount you tip your movers can vary based on several factors:

Distance of the move – For local moves within the same city, a tip of $20-50 per mover is common. For longer distance interstate moves, tips tend to be higher – around $50-150 per mover – to account for their time away from home. 

Size of move – The more items and furniture being moved, the more challenging the job. Tips should reflect the amount of work and care involved. For small studio moves, tip around $20-50 per mover. For larger 3-4 bedroom home moves, $50-150+ per mover is appropriate.

Crew size – Tips can be calculated per person or per team. For solo movers, the standard tip advice applies. For multi-mover crews, adjust the per person tip amount accordingly to come up with a fair total tip to present. 

Additional services – Did the movers go above and beyond by providing exceptional service, disassembling/reassembling furniture, packing specialty items, using stairs, or handling bulky items like pianos or safes? Increase tips to account for difficult work. An extra $20-50 per mover is reasonable.

Quality and care – How well did the movers protect your items and home? Did they exhibit professionalism and efficiency? Tip more for movers who took extra care. Reduce tips for movers who damaged items or were unprofessional.

The major factors that influence tip amount are distance traveled, size/difficulty of the move, number of movers, and quality of service. Tips should adequately reflect the effort required.

Per Person or Per Team

When tipping a moving team, it can be tricky to decide whether to tip each worker individually or give one tip to the team as a whole. There are arguments on both sides of this issue.

Some advise tipping each mover separately. This allows you to reward exceptional service or effort from specific workers. If one mover went above and beyond while others simply did adequate work, an individual tip can acknowledge that. Tipping each worker also promotes accountability and encourages movers to provide their best service to earn their tip.  

However, others recommend providing one tip for the entire moving team. This approach is simpler and ensures even distribution of the gratuity. The moving job involves coordination and teamwork, so the team tip philosophy recognizes that. It also avoids any jealousy or conflict if certain workers receive more than others. The team leader can divide the tip among the crew as they see fit.

There’s no right or wrong approach. Both individual tips and team tips are common and acceptable. Consider the size of the moving team, the complexity of the job, and any outstanding effort from individuals. Do what seems fair and appropriate for the service you received. The most important thing is showing your appreciation for the movers’ hard work.

Also, Read : Best Interstate Moving and Storage

Non-Cash Tips

In addition to monetary tips, consider providing snacks, drinks, meals, gift cards, or other non-cash tokens of appreciation to your movers. This can be especially thoughtful if you supply locally made or artisanal goods that reflect your region. 

Some ideas for non-cash tips include:

– Good coffee and breakfast pastries or bagels if the movers are arriving in the morning

– A cooler filled with bottled water, sports drinks, and soft drinks to keep the movers hydrated 

– Fresh fruit, veggies, sandwiches, pizza or other easy grab-and-go foods for lunch or snacks

– Gift certificates to popular coffee shops, restaurants, or grocery stores

– Gift baskets with local treats, baked goods, or specialty foods

Providing food and drinks shows your movers that you appreciate their hard work and want to keep their energy and spirits up. It also saves them time and money searching for places to eat or buy drinks during the course of the move. 

If possible, try to customize your non-cash tip based on preferences or dietary restrictions. Ask ahead if anyone has food allergies or sensitivities. 

Giving snacks, meals, or small gifts in addition to a monetary tip can help convey your gratitude for exceptional service. Just be sure to check on policies regarding gifts first.

When to Tip

Tipping at the right time is important when showing your appreciation to movers. You generally want to tip your movers after the moving service is complete. This allows you to assess the overall experience and quality of service provided before deciding on a tip amount. 

Tipping the movers while they are still working can make some feel awkward or uncomfortable. It can also set the wrong expectations if issues or damages occur later in the move that would impact your satisfaction.

The ideal time to tip is after the movers have finished unloading and unpacking your items in your new home. Take a quick walkthrough to ensure no immediate damage or issues. Assuming you are satisfied with the service, offer a tip to the lead mover and thank them for their work. This shows your gratitude and completes the experience on a positive note.

Some key times to tip or avoid tipping:

– At the end upon satisfactory completion – Best practice

– While movers are still working – Avoid as it can be awkward

– Before assessing potential damages – Hold off until the work is done

– Days later by mail – Acceptable but lacks personal touch  

Tipping at the end when the job is fully finished allows you to tip according to your satisfaction. It also gives movers something to look forward to as their work day wraps up. The little extra effort to tip in-person helps ensure a five-star moving experience.

Tip Etiquette

Tipping movers requires more than just handing over some cash. Follow these etiquette tips to ensure you’re tipping properly:

– Tip in cash directly to each mover rather than leaving a general tip, so they each get their fair share. Count out the cash tip for each person as you hand it to them. 

– Offer tips at the end of the move when the work is completed. Tipping early could be seen as a bribe for better service.

– Don’t tip movers less because of minor problems or delays that occur. Tip based on their overall hard work and time spent.

– If you offer snacks or drinks, do so in addition to a cash tip. Refreshments shouldn’t replace monetary tips.

– Avoid overly effusive thanks. A simple “Thank you, this is for your hard work today” suffices when tipping.

– Don’t ask for change back if you hand movers a larger bill. Let them keep the change as part of their tip.

– Provide an envelope for tips if multiple family members are contributing. This keeps things organized.

– If hiring movers again in the future, tip well to encourage excellent service next time. 

– Discuss any tipping concerns privately with company management rather than shortchanging hardworking movers.

Following proper tipping etiquette shows movers your appreciation for their services while maintaining professionalism. A thoughtful tipping approach leads to good feelings all around.

Ask About Tip Policies

Before your move, be sure to ask the moving company about their tipping policies. Many movers have standard tipping practices or recommendations. Getting this information upfront allows you to budget accordingly and avoid any awkward tipping situations on moving day.  

Some companies include gratuity in their overall charges so additional tipping is not expected or required. Other companies may have a suggested tip amount or percentage. There can even be tipping policies for specific services like packing versus loading/unloading. Knowing the policies in advance enables you to tip fairly and appropriately.

You’ll also want to find out if tips should be per person or per team. For example, some companies pool tips to split evenly while others expect individual tips per mover. It’s important to know the tipping structure to provide tips in the desired manner.

Discussing tips ahead of time can prevent uncomfortable conversations onsite and ensure the tipping process goes smoothly. The movers will appreciate you taking the time to understand their policies. Asking about tips also provides insight into a company’s practices, which can help in comparing moving companies. Be sure to get all tip-related information prior to your move date for a seamless experience.

Tax Implications

Tips paid to movers may be tax deductible, but there are some important factors to consider. Generally speaking, tips to movers are deductible as a miscellaneous itemized deduction. However, miscellaneous itemized deductions were eliminated with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act starting in 2018. This means that for most taxpayers, tips to movers are no longer deductible.  

There are some exceptions though. Tips may still be deductible if you are self-employed and the tips relate to your business. For example, if you tip movers while moving equipment or inventory for your business, those tips can potentially be deducted as a business expense. The key is being able to demonstrate that the tips were an ordinary and necessary expense for operating your business.

Tips may also still be deductible if you itemize your deductions and can claim them as moving expenses related to a job relocation. However, the tax rules around deducting moving expenses are complex, with distance and time requirements that must be met. Consult with a tax professional to understand if your specific moving-related tips qualify for this deduction.

The bottom line is that for most people who use a moving company for personal (not business) reasons, tips paid to movers are no longer tax deductible after the recent tax law changes. Deductions may be possible in limited cases if you are self-employed or the tips relate directly to a job relocation. Check with a tax advisor to be sure.

Conclusion

Tipping your movers is customary practice in the moving industry, but determining how much to tip can be tricky. In this article, we’ve covered the average recommended tip amount of $50-100 per mover, key factors like move distance and crew size that impact your tip, whether to tip per person or per team, and creative non-cash tip ideas. 

It’s important to confirm when to present tips, adhere to tip etiquette by not implying obligations, ask companies ahead of time about standard tipping policies, and be aware of tax implications. With these tips in mind, you can show your movers your appreciation through an appropriate tip.

To recap, the goal of this article was to provide readers with a definitive guide on mover tipping best practices. By outlining tipping averages, influential factors, policies, and etiquette, readers should now feel equipped with the knowledge needed to confidently tip their movers. Tipping can be a major part of the moving experience, so we hope these tips help you tip your movers generously while avoiding missteps.

Interstate Moving and the Environment: A Greener Approach to Relocation

June 3, 2024
Interstate Moving and the Environment: A Greener Approach to Relocation

In today’s fast-paced world, people are constantly on the move. Whether it’s for a job opportunity, a change of scenery, or personal reasons, interstate moving has become a common part of modern life. However, as we embark on these journeys to new destinations, it’s essential to consider the environmental impact of our relocations. In this article, we’ll explore the concept of interstate moving and storage while highlighting the importance of environmentally conscious practices. Let’s embark on this eco-friendly journey together.

 

The Interstate Moving Landscape

Interstate Moving Defined: Interstate moving involves the relocation of individuals and families across state lines. It can be a daunting and complex process, often requiring professional assistance from moving companies. These companies offer various services, including packing, transportation, storage, and unpacking at the new destination.

Interstate moving and storage companies play a crucial role in simplifying the process of long-distance relocations. However, it’s essential to consider the environmental footprint of these activities.

Quote:Choosing an eco-friendly approach to interstate moving not only benefits the environment but also ensures a healthier future for generations to come.

 

How to Minimize the Environmental Impact

1. Choose Sustainable Packing Materials

Packing is a fundamental aspect of any move. Instead of relying on single-use plastic materials, opt for sustainable alternatives like cardboard boxes, biodegradable packing peanuts, and reusable containers. Many interstate moving companies offer eco-friendly packing options that reduce waste.

2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Before packing up your entire household, declutter and downsize. Donate, recycle, or sell items you no longer need. The less you move, the smaller your carbon footprint.

3. Green Transportation

Consider the mode of transportation used by your chosen moving company. Some companies invest in energy-efficient and low-emission vehicles, reducing the environmental impact of the move.

Tip:When hiring an interstate moving company, inquire about their commitment to environmentally responsible practices. Ask if they have a ‘green’ moving option and request a quote for this service.

 

Eco-Friendly Interstate Moving Companies

As the demand for eco-friendly moving practices grows, several interstate moving and storage companies are stepping up to provide greener solutions. Some companies have adopted the following environmentally conscious practices:

1. Fuel-Efficient Vehicle Fleets

Many moving companies now operate trucks with improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. This minimizes the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation.

2. Renewable Energy Use

Moving and storage facilities can consume a significant amount of energy. Companies are increasingly transitioning to renewable energy sources to power their operations, reducing their reliance on fossil fuels.

3. Packing Material Alternatives

Environmentally responsible moving companies offer alternatives to traditional packing materials. They may provide customers with options like reusable crates or biodegradable packing supplies.

4. Carbon Offsetting

Some companies participate in carbon offset programs to neutralize the emissions produced during a move. This involves investing in projects that reduce or capture an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Collection:Looking for the right interstate moving company that aligns with your eco-conscious values? Our Comparing Moving Companies collection offers insights into evaluating and choosing the best environmentally responsible moving services.

 

The Importance of Environmental Responsibility

Interstate moving is a substantial industry, with thousands of people and families relocating across state lines daily. The collective impact of these moves on the environment is significant. It’s essential to recognize the importance of choosing sustainable practices that mitigate environmental harm while ensuring a smooth and efficient move.

Reducing Environmental Impact

Eco-friendly interstate moving isn’t just about minimizing waste or using green packing materials. It’s also about taking steps to reduce the overall environmental impact of the relocation process. By selecting a moving company that prioritizes sustainability, you contribute to the larger goal of preserving our planet.

Inspiring Change

Your choices can inspire change in the industry. As more customers demand eco-friendly moving services, companies are motivated to adopt environmentally responsible practices. Your voice and actions matter in creating a greener future for the moving and storage industry.

 

The Future of Interstate Moving and Storage

As we progress into the future, the sustainability of interstate moving and storage practices will continue to gain importance. Companies that prioritize eco-friendly solutions are more likely to thrive in this changing landscape, meeting the demands of environmentally conscious consumers.

Collection:Are you ready to make a difference and choose an eco-conscious interstate moving company for your next relocation? Our Best Moving Companies for Long-Distance Moves collection provides a list of top-rated moving companies that emphasize sustainable practices.

 

Conclusion: An Eco-Friendly Journey

Interstate moving and storage can be conducted in a manner that is both efficient and environmentally responsible. By making sustainable choices, you not only reduce your carbon footprint but also contribute to a greener future for the moving industry as a whole.

Embrace eco-friendly moving practices and set a positive example for others in your community. Let’s work together to protect our planet while enjoying a seamless and environmentally conscious relocation experience.

Note: At WowMover, we advocate for environmentally responsible moving practices. Explore our collections for expert guidance on sustainable moving options and make a difference with your next interstate move.